Magnetic refrigeration at room temperature is an emerging alternative refrigeration
technology, which promises low energy consumption and is environmentally friendly.
Magnetic refrigeration is based on the magnetocaloric effect, which manifests itself as
a reversible increase in temperature when magnetic materials are placed in a magnetic
field. Magnetic refrigeration may utilise a number of different materials. An environmental
impact study of the preparation and production of a number of these, compared
to the refrigerant gasses conventionally used will be undertaken. This will shed light on
the commercial viability of magnetic refrigeration. Currently at Risø DTU, construction
of a magnetic refrigeration prototype is being finalised.